As the leaves quickly change and snow begins to dust the mountain tops, it reminds us of many things including-flu season. Guests at the SmartCare Family Medical Center in Parker got a jump start on flu season by receiving their flu shots. With an emphasis on convenience, SmartCare walk-in medical clinics located in select Wal-Mart Supercenter locations, offer vaccines seven days a week with no appointment needed.
Guests 18 months and older can receive the flu vaccine for $25.
SmartCare's regular business hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., no appointment necessary. In addition, flu shot clinics - with extra medical staff to ensure little or no waiting - will be held Sundays in October and November from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at each SmartCare location.
"For many people, particularly families, the hardest part about protecting themselves against the flu virus is actually finding time to get a flu shot," said SmartCare's Chief Nurse Practitioner Rebeca Imgrund, FNP-C. "At SmartCare, we place a premium on wellness and illness prevention, so we have made it more convenient for adults and children to do the single most important thing to protect themselves against the flu by getting a flu shot. Flu season typically begins in the fall and can last into springtime, so October and November are the best times to get vaccinated."
In addition to receiving a flu shot, Imgrund suggests these five flu prevention tips:
Wash your hands:This is the most important way to keep germs from spreading and to avoid getting sick. Wash often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Teach your children this important habit.
Eat smart:Make sure you're eating a well-balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Certain foods and nutrients may help your immune system, including garlic, vitamin C, zinc, ginger and even chicken soup.
Stay hydrated: Water flushes your system, washing out the poisons as it hydrates you. Aim for eight 8-ounce glasses of fluids a day.
Exercise regularly: To increase your body's resistance to viruses, try to get in an aerobic workout 3-4 times a week.
Avoid smoking and alcohol: Smokers tend to get more severe colds and more frequent ones. Drinking can lower your resistance and dehydrate the body.
"While following these guidelines isn't a flu-free guarantee, they will improve your overall health. And if you are sidelined with the flu, you'll increase the odds in your favor for a quicker recovery," Imgrund said.
Parker SmartCare Location:
11101 South Parker Road